Statistical Package For Social Sciences Research Articles

Structural Characterization and Grading of Timber Species for Engineering Applicability in Kenya

An investigation was carried out in Kakamega County to determine the characteristic grade of eucalyptus and cypress timber species that are commonly used in construction. The physical and mechanical properties of two timber species for structural use; eucalyptus and cypress were determined. Six logs of each species were obtained from different areas of Kakamega County, sliced into 2” by 12” size before seasoning under a shade and their structural strength properties were determined at a moisture content of 12%. These logs were cut into test samples for the determination of their strength properties. A total of 800 samples (100 samples for each test) free from visible defects were used for each species. Basic physical properties of the samples like moisture content and density were determined. Tensile strength, compressive strength parallel the grain, compressive strength perpendicular to the grain, and bending strength were the mechanical strength tests carried out according to Eurocode 5 (1995) and BS 5268 (2002) specifications on Universal Testing Machine (UTM). Results were analyzed statistically using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) while grading was done according to Eurocode 5 (EC5). Cypress was graded into strength class C20 while eucalyptus was graded into strength class D24. Strength class C20 is used in load-bearing structures that require high strength, such as roof trusses and floor systems. D24 is a common structural grade for a variety of structures exposed to high environmental conditions.

Mustard Gel versus Chlorhexidine Gel as Root-Canal Medicament Against Enterococcus Faecalis: An in vitro Study.

To evaluate the efficacy of mustard gel versus chlorhexidine (CHX) gel in treating the most resistant Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) bacteria as intra-canal medications. Randomised controlled trial (in vitro study). Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Operative Dentistry, de'Montmorency College of Dentistry, in collaboration with Lahore General Hospital, between March and October 2021. Forty single-rooted teeth, extracted and randomly allocated, were divided into two groups. Group 1 underwent treatment with CHX gel, while Group 2 was treated with Mustard gel. Subsequently, after disinfection, each tooth was horizontally divided into three equal parts. The middle section was standardised and inoculated with a controlled strain of E. faecalis. Intra-canal medicaments were administered for seven days. Bacterial colonies were quantified as colony forming units (CFU/mL) and subjected to analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The median bacterial count observed was 1,550 (range 775 - 2,500) for Group 1, contrasting with 400 (range 200 - 775) for Group 2, indicating a significant difference in bacterial count between the groups (p <0.001). Mustard gel demonstrated significantly superior efficacy compared to chlorhexidine gel against E. faecalis in root canal procedures. Chlorhexidine, Enterococcus faecalis, Mustard, Root canal medicament, Antimicrobial drug-resistance, Root canal irrigants.

The Level of Family Compatibility in Irbid County, Jordan, During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Objective: To assess the level of family compatibility during the COVID-19 pandemic in the city of Irbid, Jordan. Methods: A descriptive-correlational approach was employed. The study population included all residents of Irbid County in 2021, estimated to be 856,200 individuals from 175,035 families. The study sample comprised 1000 participants, including 500 males and 500 females. A questionnaire was distributed through social media platforms to collect data, and a family compatibility scale during the COVID-19 pandemic was used to achieve the research objective. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: The study's findings indicated that (1) the level of family compatibility among the respondents was at a low level, reflecting a negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on family compatibility. (2) The higher the number of children, the lower the family compatibility. (3) There is no statistically significant effect of educational qualification and gender variables on family compatibility. (4) There is an effect of the age variable: the older the person, the higher the level of family compatibility. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant adverse effect on family compatibility, not only in Jordan but also globally. Therefore, the study recommends that social policymakers prioritize this issue, and researchers should investigate other aspects of family compatibility.

Healthcare students attitudes opinions perceptions and perceived obstacles regarding ChatGPT in Saudi Arabia: a survey‑based cross‑sectional study

With growing technology, it’s easier for students to accomplish their assignments with little or no effort. This study assesses attitudes, opinions, perceptions, and perceived obstacles regarding ChatGPT among healthcare students at King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study among healthcare students was conducted from the beginning of January to April 2024 using social media, platforms through a prevalidated series of questionnaires. This study included students from the College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS). A total of 354 students included in the study. The data was analyzed using a statistical package for social science (SPSS). Among the healthcare students 39.8% (n = 141) of them were between 23 and 24 years old and most of them were male 68.4% (n = 242). The majority of the healthcare students 91.2% (n = 323) were familiar with the term “ChatGPT, while 75.1% (n = 266) of them were comfortable to some extent in using ChatGPT in their academic activity. Although 22% (n = 78) of healthcare students stated they had used ChatGPT in their academics 29.5% of them perceived that ChatGPT is used in information gathering. In addition, 66.7% of them showed positive attitudes towards ChatGPT. While 61.3% of the healthcare students perceived that ChatGPT may increase productivity and 84.7% of them revealed that it has a positive impact on education. The mean perceptions score of ChatGPT was significantly higher among females (22.64 ± 6.36) comparing male students (21.71 ± 4.66) (t = 1.551; p = 0.001). Similarly, the mean perception score of ChatGPT was higher among pharmacy (22.99 ± 5.48) compared to other healthcare students (F = 4.941; p = 0.008). The current findings concluded that most of the healthcare students are familiar with ChatGPT and show positive perceptions, and perceived that ChatGPT may increase productivity and have a positive impact on education. Therefore, we recommend future studies concentrate on enhancing the ethical and successful application of AI tools and ChatGPT in the academic setting is pivotal.

Students' Perceptions of Written Examinations and Typed Examinations- A Comparative Study in Gulf University

Abstract : Assessment is inevitable in any kind of formal education because it provides an idea of the amount of learning achieved to both the students and the instructors. Assessment has undergone a drastic change in its form and nature owing to the COVID-19 intervention. During the pandemic, most traditional assessments were reframed to suit to the online mode of conduct. Hence, the typed examinations came into picture replacing the written examinations. Though the students were not trained for the typing exams, they were enforced to take up typed examinations as there was no choice available during that time. This study intends to understand the students’ perceptions with respect to written examinations and typed examinations to identify the preferred mode of giving the examinations. A survey questionnaire comprising closed ended questions on a 5-point Likert was used to get the inputs from the students at Gulf University, Bahrain. Descriptive statistics methodology was adopted after carrying out the Cronbach’s alpha, Pearson’s chi square tests and linear regression on the data. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) v21 was employed for data analysis. The results of the study suggest that the students prefer typing examinations for the ease of typing speed, proficiency in online reading skills, and typing function awareness. The scope of the study is to recommend bringing in the necessary changes in the policies and practices abiding the typing examinations to sustain the preferred mode in an ethical manner. Plus, it suggests addressing the challenges pertaining to the less preferred mode of examinationshandwritten examination for improvisation and further enhancement. Keywords : students, written, typed, examinations, assessments, Gulf University

Peri-Operative Complications And Surgical Outcomes In Repeat Cesarean Section: A Retrospective Analysis

Introduction: Repeat cesarean sections are becoming increasingly common due to the global rise in cesarean deliveries. While cesarean sections can be life-saving for both mother and baby, the risks associated with multiple procedures tend to increase. This study aims to evaluate these complications and outcomes to guide safer practices. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted Department of Obstetrics &amp; Gynaecology, Chittagong Medical College &amp; Hospital, from December 16-June’17. All the pregnant women who underwent repeat Caesarean section in Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chittagong during the study period were considered as the study population. A total of 100 study subjects were selected by consecutive convenient sampling techniques. Data analysis was done by SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) 16. In all cases, p-value &lt;05 was considered significant. Result: most repeat cesarean sections (70%) lasted about 1 hour, with 99% utilizing the Pfannenstiel incision. Adhesions were observed primarily with the bladder (8%), peritoneum (5%), and omentum (5%). A lower transverse uterine incision was used in 99% of cases, while 5% experienced scar dehiscence. Challenges during fetal delivery occurred in 5% of cases, and 3% had difficulty entering the peritoneal cavity. Placental abnormalities like placenta previa were noted in 6% of cases, and placental adherence (accreta or percreta) was found in 3%. Urinary bladder injuries occurred in 2% of cases. Blood loss was below 1 liter in 95% of surgeries, but 3% required significant transfusions. Elective tubal ligation was performed in 15% of cases, and some patients underwent additional procedures like Lynch surgeries or uterine artery ligations (3%). Conclusion: Notable complications are observed in repeat cesarean sections, including adhesions with the bladder, scar dehiscence, and challenges during fetal delivery. Additionally, placental abnormalities, such as placenta previa and abnormal adherence, highlight the complexities associated with repeat procedures. Most patients experienced minimal blood loss, with 95% losing less than 1 liter.

Knowledge Perception and Utilisation of Labour Analgesia Among Antenatal Clinic Attendees in a Tertiary Centre in Makurdi, North-Central Nigeria

Abstract Background: Labour pain management forms an integral part of modern obstetric practice. Despite the availability of various forms of obstetric analgesia in Nigeria, reports indicate poor knowledge, awareness, and utilisation of labour analgesia among the obstetric population. Objective: To determine the knowledge, perception, utilisation, and factors affecting utilisation of labour analgesia among antenatal clinic attendees at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Makurdi. Materials and Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study conducted among 421 consecutively consenting antenatal patients in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the FMC, Makurdi, between March 1 to July 31, 2023. Data were collected using an interviewer-guided questionnaire, analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0, and results were presented in textual form and tables. Results: About 47% (199) of the study participants perceived labour pain as the worst possible pain. Only 18.3% (77) of the study participants were knowledgeable about labour analgesia, while just 6.4% (27) of the study participants had ever used it. On multiple logistics regression, the knowledge of labour pain relief (adjusted odd’s ratio [aOR] 0.090, CI = 0.038−0.215, P &lt; 0.001) and mode of previous delivery (aOR 0.292, CI = 0.114−0.750, P &lt; 0.011) were the factors affecting the utilisation of labour analgesia among study participants. Conclusion: There is poor knowledge and utilisation of labour analgesia among antenatal patients. Incorporation of labour analgesia into existing protocols and enhancing health education on labour analgesia as part of antenatal health talks can create awareness of labour analgesia among antenatal patients.

Knowledge and Practice Regarding Vocal Hygiene Among Teachers of Selected Schools, Kathmandu

BackgroundVocal hygiene is the practice of taking care of the voice and minimizing strain on it. This comprises avoiding smoking, alcohol and other harmful substances, remaining hydrated, and practising proper breathing techniques. This study intended to evaluate the level of knowledge and practices concerning vocal hygiene. MethodologyA cross-sectional study design was utilized to conduct the study among teachers in Greenland Higher Secondary School, Basundhara, National Academy and Nirmal Batika Academy using a self-administered structured questionnaire. A sample of 122 teachers was taken using a complete enumerative sampling technique. The data was collected from 1st October to 16th October and was edited, coded, and entered into the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) for further analysis. Data was examined using descriptive (frequency, percentage mean and standard deviation), inferential Statistics (chi-square test) and Karl Pearson’s test. FindingsThe study results presented that nearly half, 49.2% of the respondents, had a moderate level of knowledge, 31.1% had an inadequate level of knowledge, and 19.7% had an adequate level of knowledge regarding Vocal Hygiene (VH). The results discovered that 73% of the respondents had good practice, and 27% had poor practice regarding VH. There was a statistically significant association only between the level of knowledge regarding VH and the number of classes taken per week (p=0.0053). ValueThe study showed that the majority of teachers have moderate knowledge about vocal hygiene, whereas there is good practice among teachers. The results strongly recommend the need for vocal hygiene training sessions for teachers.

Iranian English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers' professional development needs in educational contexts: Exploring the challenge of reflective practice.

This study investigated Iranian, English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers' attitudes toward reflective teaching compared with their classroom assessment preferences and up-take of strategy-based instruction. It compared their views in the two key higher education provider contexts of the university and institute. In this cross-sectional correlational study, a total of 90 teachers, half drawn from each university in a major city in Iran, were selected using controlled quota sampling. Data were collected through a four-part survey. Besides gathering demographic data (Part A), the survey drew upon three established instruments that used a Likert Scale format. Part B comprised the Teacher Reflectivity questionnaire, and Part C focused on the Classroom Assessment Preferences Survey Questionnaire for Language Teachers. Also, part D administered the Teachers' Beliefs Inventory for Strategy Instruction. The reliability of this and the CAPSQ-LT was confirmed by the researchers using Cronbach's alpha at 0.842 and 0.951, respectively. A total of 90 questionnaires were distributed, with 72 fully completed (80%) and returned. the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was employed to analyze the data, using the independent sample t-test and ANOVA. Also, Pearson product-moment correlations were used to measure the association between the variables. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered as significant. As shown in findings, a statistically significant and positive correlation was found between the teachers' reflective teaching scores and classroom assessment preference scores (r=0.473, p0=.001). This correlation was moderately high and positive, thus supporting that higher teacher reflective practices reflect a broader application of classroom assessment. The Table also shows that there was no significant correlation between the teachers' attitudes toward reflective teaching and their uptake of strategy-based instruction (r=0.094; p=0.434). Similarly, there was no statistically significant correlation between the teachers' attitudes toward classroom assessment preferences and their beliefs about strategy-based instruction (r=0.038, p=0.752). As shown, no statistically significant difference was observed between the teachers' attitudes toward reflective teaching and their uptake of strategy-based instruction (p<0.05). This study draws attention to the need for teachers in EFL contexts, such as this, to have access to professional development opportunities that deeply engage and guide them to be reflective practitioners who can make the connections between assessment techniques, strategy-based instruction, and students' improved language learning outcomes.

Assessing the Frequency of Congenital Heart Diseases Among Children in Eastern Afghanistan.

Congenital heart disease (CHD), characterized by anatomical and functional abnormalities of the heart, can impair an individual's quality of life and, if not treated with appropriate interventions, it can result in early death. Morbidity and mortality from CHD are greatly reduced by early diagnosis and timely therapy. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the frequency of various forms of CHD among affected children in Eastern Afghanistan considering age, gender, and region of distribution (countryside and city). A retrospective hospital-based study was conducted on 1323 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CHD who were referred for echocardiography to public and private hospitals in Jalalabad City, Afghanistan, from July 2018 to June 2022. Patients from day one of life till 18 years were included. The study participants were chosen using a non-probability convenience sampling technique, and the data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 27.0. In this study, males comprised 60.4% of the participants, while females made up 39.6%. More than three-quarters (86.4%) of the diagnoses were in children below 1 year of age. 86.5% of them were patients with acyanotic, and 13.5% had cyanotic CHD. The most common acyanotic heart disease was patent ductus arteriosus (PDA; 252.6%), followed by ventricular septal defect (VSD; 18.4%) and atrial septal defect (ASD; 8.5%). The most frequent cyanotic heart disease was Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). 79.9% of the total cases were patients with simple CDH lesions, and 20.1% had complex CHD lesions. In addition, participants from rural areas had a higher (78.9%) frequency of CHD compared to those from urban areas (21.1%). The study concluded that over 85% of CHD-diagnosed cases were under 1 year of age, with PDA, VSD, ASD, and TOF being the most commonly diagnosed acyanotic and cyanotic lesions. Participants from rural residence had a higher frequency of CHD compared to those from urban residence. Additionally, our study found that more males were affected by CHD compared to females. In order to avoid serious complications, reduce mortality, and improve quality of life, early identification and correction of disease is crucial.

Learning and Development Program’s Admission Requirements and Student Engagement as Success Determinants in Accountancy

This study focuses on the admission criteria of a bachelor of accountancy (BAcc) degree program as one of many factors influencing students’ success in graduating in the regulated time frames. The present study used constructivist learning and student engagement theories as connected lenses to explore the effect of admission criteria on first-year-level students’ academic performance. The research findings emanate from a mixed methods methodology using logistic regression, one of the choice models in the International Business Machines (IBM) Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS), and semi-structured interviews. A sample of 43 was randomly selected from the list of 91 students with NSC-level accounting to match the number of 43 students who did not do NSC-level accounting offered in South African high schools. This gave the researchers a study sample 86, which reduced 81 following incomplete data submission by five students. The study’s findings suggest a sensitive understanding of students’ engagement with program materials and admission criteria. The admission criteria embraces prior high school knowledge reflected in the NSC-level admission points score (APS) and NSC-level mathematics. In addition, student dedication is a dimension of student engagement that we explored. The value of the study is a contribution to the reconsideration of student engagement alongside program admission requirements, leading to the integration of constructivist learning and student engagement theories. Prior studies have not integrated constructivist learning and student engagement theories into their research design. We recommend the continued use of the NSC-level APS score and mathematics in the admission requirements of the BAcc learning and development programs. We also recommend using teaching and learning activities that bring out student dedication. More research should be done on all aspects of student engagement premised on graduating students.

Newly qualified general nurses’ experiences of pre-registration internship: A Republic of Ireland cross-sectional study

AimThe aim of this study was to examine Newly Qualified General Nurses' (NQGNs’) experiences of and the value of the internship period. BackgroundInternship was introduced as the final part of the undergraduate nursing degree in Ireland in 2002. The aim was to provide students with clinical experience, whereby they work more independently and in doing so, seamlessly progress their transition to the role of registered nurse. DesignA cross-sectional, quantitative, descriptive study. Setting and ParticipantsNewly Qualified General Nurses who completed their undergraduate degree in general nursing and graduated from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Republic of Ireland between 2018 and 2020 were eligible for inclusion in the study. MethodsParticipants were recruited using snowball sampling. Data were collected anonymously using the electronic Experience of Internship Questionnaire. Analysis was undertaken using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 27). ResultsPre-internship preparation experiences differed across hospitals. The NQGNs would have preferred more support with their caseloads and help with understanding the rationale for care delivery. However, internship provided good opportunities to link theory to practice and was considered valuable by most in preparing them for practicing as a registered nurse. ConclusionInternship assists intern nursing students to link theory to practice. Further, support in internship is crucial when managing a caseload and to enhance understanding of the care provided. The value of internship was identified with suggestions on ways to strengthen the experience of internship.

Allergic Rhinitis in Professional Singers: A Monoinstitutional Series

ObjectiveIn professional singers, allergic rhinitis can lead to dysphonia and alterations in resonance. Each episode of laryngeal inflammation increases the risk of vocal strain or forces singers to cancel performances. This study aimed to analyze differences between allergic and non-allergic professional singers in self-evaluation of voice quality, objective examination of voice, and limitations of professional activities due to voice troubles. MethodsTwo groups, one with 30 subjects diagnosed with allergic rhinitis (the study group) and the other with 30 subjects without allergic rhinitis (the control group), were recruited from a pool of 167 professional pop singers. All subjects underwent comprehensive rhinological and phoniatric evaluations. The rhinological evaluation included nasal endoscopy, rhinomanometry, and 22-item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) questionnaire. The phoniatric evaluation included laryngostroboscopy, the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) and Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHI) questionnaires, and the Dysphonia Severity Index (DSI). Statistical analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences 25.0 (SPSS). ResultsDust mite allergy was the main cause of symptoms in our series of allergic singers, particularly when associated with seasonal allergens. Comparing singers with allergic rhinitis to those without, the study group had significantly higher scores on the SNOT-22, VHI, and SVHI assessments. Although the median DSI value indicated a good quality of voice in all subjects, it was significantly lower in the allergic group compared to the control group. The odds ratio (OR) indicated an increased risk for allergic singers of needing to postpone performances (OR 3.7), singing with laryngeal inflammation (OR 4.4), or changing the song pitch (OR 22.2). ConclusionsAllergic singers experienced severe limitations in their professional activities. Our results suggest that careful management of allergic rhinitis is essential for singers to avoid conditions that could lead to vocal strain.

To Determine the Histomorphological Variants of Kaposi’s Sarcoma in HIV-infected Patients in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital

Abstract Introduction: There are different histopathological variants of Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) aside the typical patch, plaque, and nodular variants. The baseline data of the unfamiliar variants of this lesion have not been determined in our environment. Their determination will bring to the foreclose differential diagnoses that may lead to diagnostic pitfalls. Aim and Objectives: To determine the histomorphological variants of KS in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital over a 3-year 2-month period from May 1, 2014, to July 31, 2017. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study. The patients were all adult human immunodeficiency virus-positive highly active antiretroviral therapy users who had symptomatic cutaneous lesions that were histopathologically identified as KS. The histopathological variants of KS were noted. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 16, was used to analyse the data. Results: Fifty patients had KS. The histomorphological variants (stages) of KS, as seen in this study, ranged from the typical progressive lesions of patch (13.2%), plaque (43.4%), and nodules (18.4%) to rarely diagnosed variants that are lymphangioma-like KS (6.6%), lymphangiectatic KS (5.2%), hyperkeratotic KS (1.3%), keloidal KS (9.2%), ecchymotic KS (1.3%), and pyogenic granuloma-like KS (1.3%). The mixed pattern (spindle cells and vascular channels) was the predominant (63%) histologic cellular group in this study. Conclusion: In addition to the common histopathological subtypes of KS, this study also found less common histopathological variants.

Effect of different implant positions for two implant-retained mandibular overdenture: a retrospective 5-years radiographic evaluation of the circumferential peri-implant bone loss and posterior ridge resorptive changes

BackgroundStudies did not recommend which position for implant overdenture poses the lowest biomechanical risk and the least chance of peri-implant bone loss and ridge resorption for those who might need a mandibular two-implant overdenture. The study objectives were to investigate the impact of implant position, in lateral incisors or canine positions, on peri-implant bone loss and posterior ridge resorption.MethodsFifty patients with mandibular two-implants were recalled and divided according to the implant position into two groups (group L: implants in lateral incisor positions and group C: implants in canine positions). The circumferential peri-implant bone level and posterior ridge resorption were assessed at implant insertion (T0), one year later (T1), and five years later (T5) using the follow-up CBCT. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) program. A Mann-Whitney test was used to compare two different groups. Paired groups were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The threshold of significance is fixed at a 5% level (p-value).ResultsSignificant differences in the vertical bone loss between groups appeared at (T5 - T1) (Mann Whitney test, (P = 0.01)) and at (T5 - T0) (Mann Whitney test, (P = 0.005)), and a significant difference in horizontal bone loss between groups was found at (T1 - T0) (Mann Whitney test, (P = 0.041)) and (T5 - T1) (Mann Whitney test, (P = 0.041)). Also, there were significant differences over the evaluation period between groups at certain points along the ridge at M1 (Mann Whitney test, (P = 0.021)), M3 (Mann Whitney test, (P = 0.008)), and M4 (Mann Whitney test, (P = 0.015)).ConclusionsAccording to the findings of this clinical study, the placement of implants in the lateral incisor position for two implant-retained overdentures is a viable choice. In comparison to the canine position, the lateral incisor position demonstrated superior peri-implant responses, which could potentially enhance the longevity of the implants. Furthermore, the placement of implants in the lateral incisor position can promote a more even distribution of stress and help mitigate posterior ridge resorption. Conversely, implants in the canine position may cause a seesaw effect and result in greater posterior ridge resorption.Clinical Trial Registry Number(NCT06055842) (13/03/2024).

Knowledge, Attitude and Diagnosing Ability about Oral Cancer among Medical and Dental Students of a Tertiary Medical College in Chitwan, Nepal

Background Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers taking away many lives worldwide. The chances of recovery from oral cancer are good if, detected early. Lack of knowledge, casual attitude, and poor diagnostic skills among medical and dental undergraduate students could delay detection and management. The present study aims to assess and compare the knowledge, attitude, and diagnostic ability of oral cancer among medical and dental undergraduate students in a tertiary care hospital in Chitwan, Nepal.MethodsA comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 123 (medical- 72, dental- 51) undergraduate students using a pre-fabricated questionnaire with close-ended questions and the responses were recorded in Excel sheets. The recorded responses were analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) software. A chi-square test was performed to analyze the difference in knowledge, attitude, and diagnostic ability among medical and dental undergraduate students.ResultsThe response rate for the study was 96.09%. The study revealed over 80% adequacy of knowledge of oral cancer among the participants. 92.41 % of medical students and 96.45 % of dental students showed a positive attitude towards oral cancer. However, a difference was noted in the diagnostic ability of oral cancer among medical and dental students. 93.13% of dental undergraduates were confident about diagnosing oral cancer whereas the confidence of medical undergraduates was only 40.96%.Conclusions The study highlighted the need to educate medical and dental undergraduates about oral cancer and emphasized the need for the revision of the medical curriculum to improve their confidence in their diagnostic ability of oral cancer.

Assessment of impacts of air pollution on people living in Ezza North close to quarry operation sites in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Quarrying activities have become lucrative work for low income people in low income countries most found in Africa. This study aimed assess the impacts of air pollution on people living in Ezza North close to quarry operation sites in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross sectional study was used and pollution level was determined with the use of calibrated Handheld GPS, Amex multiple gas meter, Sound meter and interview of participants with a questionnaire on the health status. The collected data were entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software (version 21). The one sample T-test was used to test the hypotheses at 95% confidence interval and 0.05 level of significance. The results showed that 31–40 years had 19(5.37%) males and 20(5.65%) females as highest quarrying workers. The concentration of carbon monoxide was highest at 193ppm, Sulphur dioxide at 568ppm, nitrogen dioxide at 1.9ppm, Suspended particulate Matter (SPM) at 1982ppm and sound level at 82.9dB. The concentrations of these pollutants were found to be significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) than normal levels apart from sound level without significant impact at P = 0.285. The 93.3% of the participants reported blasting of rocks produced highest air pollution, 87.5% that reported crushing, conveying, sieving produce a lot of dust. Also, 80% of participants reported high level of noise came from machinery blasting rocks, processing and haulage trucks. In all, 35% reported they had fair health condition when asked about the health status since they started quarrying work. In conclusion, the concentrations of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, particulate matter and nitrogen oxides were all higher than normal. It was observed air pollutants had association with respiratory system. Therefore, the air pollution at quarrying site can be mitigated through dust suppression techniques and treating quarry pit with water before discharging.

Efficacy of Health Belief Model on Collegians Health Beliefs Related to Electronic Cigarette; an Intervention Study

Background: Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are a type of electronic nicotine delivery system that heats e-liquids. The e-liquids typically contain nicotine and flavoring, and an aerosol is inhaled when the e-cigarette is vaped. College students are one of the most at-risk populations for e-cigarette use, and yet this population is virtually unstudied Paying attention to this segment of society and keeping them away from the risk of addiction and diseases resulting from electronic smoking is very important. Purpose: A study conducted to determine the efficacy of health belief model –based intervention in changing health beliefs about electronic cigarette use among collegians.Methodology: True experimental design, is conducted to determine the efficacy of the Health Beliefs Modelin changing health beliefs of collegians related to electronic cigarette use. A probability, simple random sample, of (120) undergraduate students has been selected. Data were collected by using a self-report questionnaire which consisted of two parts (a) socio-demographic characteristics (b) Scale Collegians beliefs about electronic cigarette use using concepts of Health Belief Models. Also, data were analyzed using the statistical package for social science (SPSS) for windows Version 24. Results: Collegians in the study group exhibited a significant association with the Health Belief Model post-intervention, suggesting that the intervention program effectively influenced their health beliefs regarding electronic cigarette usage. conclusion: The intervention program was highly effective in influencing collegians' health beliefs regarding electronic cigarette usage, as evidenced by significant differences. Recommendations: Conducting longitudinal studies to monitor changes in collegians' attitudes and behaviors towards electronic cigarette usage over time. This would provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of intervention programs and help identify emerging trends and challenges that need to be addressed.

An assessment of perceived patient satisfaction and glycaemic control pattern among adult diabetics attending a tertiary care clinic in north central Nigeria

Background: Patient satisfaction as one of the indicators of patient centered care, has taken a central point in the management of chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus. Aim/objectives: This study aimed to assess perceived patient satisfaction and glycaemic control among adult diabetics attending the General Out-Patient Clinic. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted between September 2021 and November 2021 involving 134 adult diabetic patients selected by systematic random sampling. Data was collected by interviewer administered questionnaire. Height, weight, blood pressure measurements and fasting blood glucose assay were done. Data was analyzed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Analysis was done at the 5% level of significance with p &lt; 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: A larger population (81) of the participants were females representing 60.4%. The mean age of the patients was 51.82 ± 12.19 years. The level of perceived patient satisfaction and glycaemic control were 88% and 37.3% respectively. Blood pressure status was the only independent predictor for patient satisfaction. Ethnicity, level of education, occupation and average monthly income showed statistically significant relationship with glycaemic control. Furthermore, comorbidity, perceived patient satisfaction, medication adherence, BMI and blood pressure status also showed statistically significant association with glycaemic control. Conclusion: Less than 40% of participants achieved good glycaemic control despite high level of perceived patient satisfaction (88%) in this study.

Understanding People with Disabilities in a Local Government Arena: A Limpopo Dilemma

ABSTRACT People with disabilities face discrimination or exclusion from social services such as health care, education and employment opportunities, despite the existence of anti-discrimination statutory frameworks asserting their rights. The difficulties that persons with disabilities confront as a result of a lack of understanding of disability have not received enough attention. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to assess the influence of understanding of disability on the livelihoods of people with disabilities. The paper used a mixed research methodology (qualitative and quantitative). The quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), while the qualitative research data was analysed using NVivo. The findings of the study revealed that a disproportionately high percentage of participants (70%) perceive disability as difficulty in walking, 60% as difficulty in hearing, and 59% as virtual impairments. This study came to the conclusion that misconceptions can result in exclusion and discrimination, which can have a long-term effect on the lives of people with disabilities. This research makes contribution to theory, policy and practice by demonstrating the significant role that disability knowledge and understanding plays in the lives of persons with disabilities, and how this can lead to improved quality of life and wellbeing.